Olivia Carter
If you’ve noticed that your Whirlpool fridge is not cooling properly, it can be a cause for concern. After all, you rely on your fridge to keep your food fresh and safe to eat. One common issue that many Whirlpool fridge owners face is when the fridge is not cooling, but the freezer works just fine. This can be both frustrating and confusing, as the two compartments are interconnected.
There are several possible reasons why your Whirlpool fridge is experiencing this problem. One possibility is that the evaporator fan motor, which is responsible for circulating cool air throughout the fridge, may be malfunctioning. If this is the case, the freezer may still be cold because the fan is located in the freezer compartment. However, without the fan working properly, the cold air cannot reach the fridge area, resulting in inadequate cooling.
Another potential cause could be a malfunctioning thermistor. The thermistor is a sensor that detects the temperature inside the fridge and sends signals to the control board to regulate the cooling system. If the thermistor is faulty, it may not accurately detect the temperature, leading to improper cooling in the fridge area while the freezer remains unaffected.
Additionally, a blocked air vent could also be the culprit. If the vent that allows air to flow from the freezer to the fridge is blocked by food items or ice buildup, it can restrict the airflow and prevent the cold air from reaching the fridge. This can result in a warm fridge while the freezer remains cold.
If you’re experiencing a situation where your Whirlpool fridge is not cooling but the freezer works, it is recommended to first check the evaporator fan motor, the thermistor, and the air vent for any issues. If you’re unable to identify or fix the problem yourself, it’s best to contact a professional appliance repair technician who can diagnose and repair the issue effectively.
In conclusion, a Whirlpool fridge not cooling properly while the freezer works can be caused by various factors such as a malfunctioning evaporator fan motor, a faulty thermistor, or a blocked air vent. It’s essential to address this issue promptly to ensure the longevity of your fridge and to keep your food fresh and safe.
Possible Causes for Whirlpool Fridge Not Cooling
When your Whirlpool fridge is not cooling as it should, there could be several possible causes. Understanding these causes can help you troubleshoot the problem and determine whether you can fix it yourself or if you need to call a professional technician. Here are some possible reasons why your Whirlpool fridge is not cooling:
1. Condenser Coils are Dirty
Over time, the condenser coils on the back or underneath your fridge can accumulate dust, dirt, and debris. This can reduce the cooling efficiency of the fridge. Check the coils and clean them if necessary. You can use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment or a coil cleaning brush to remove the build-up.
2. Evaporator Fan Motor is Faulty
The evaporator fan motor is responsible for circulating cool air inside the fridge. If this motor is not working properly, it can lead to inadequate cooling. Listen for any unusual noises coming from the fridge and check if the fan is spinning. If not, the motor may need to be replaced.
3. Defrost Thermostat is Malfunctioning
The defrost thermostat in your Whirlpool fridge monitors the temperature of the evaporator coils. If it malfunctions, it can cause excessive frost build-up, which hampers the cooling process. Test the thermostat for continuity using a multimeter and replace it if necessary.
4. Faulty Temperature Control Thermostat
The temperature control thermostat regulates the cooling process inside your fridge. If it is defective, it may not signal the compressor to turn on, resulting in inadequate cooling. Use a multimeter to test the thermostat for continuity, and replace it if needed.
These are just a few possible causes for your Whirlpool fridge not cooling. Other issues that can affect cooling include a defective compressor, a faulty start relay, or a refrigerant leak. If you have tried the above troubleshooting steps and your fridge still isn’t cooling properly, it is recommended to seek professional assistance to diagnose and fix the problem.
Are the Cooling Settings Properly Adjusted?
One possible reason why your Whirlpool fridge is not cooling properly but the freezer still works is that the cooling settings may not be properly adjusted. The fridge and freezer compartments of your refrigerator have separate controls for temperature settings.
Begin by checking the temperature settings on your fridge. Make sure the dial or digital display is set to the correct temperature for proper cooling. The ideal temperature for a refrigerator is generally between 34 and 40 degrees Fahrenheit (1 to 4 degrees Celsius). If the temperature setting is too high or too low, it can affect the cooling performance of your fridge.
Next, check the airflow vents in your fridge and freezer compartments. Ensure that they are not blocked by any food items or containers. Blocked vents can restrict the airflow and prevent the fridge from cooling properly. Rearrange the items in your fridge to allow for proper air circulation.
It is also important to note that overloading your fridge with too many items can hinder its cooling performance. Too much food can block the airflow and prevent proper circulation of cold air. Consider removing some items or organizing them in a way that allows for adequate airflow.
If the cooling settings are properly adjusted and there are no obstructions blocking the vents, but your fridge still is not cooling, there may be an issue with the refrigerator’s cooling system. It is advisable to contact a professional technician or the Whirlpool customer service for further assistance.
Is the Condenser Fan Working Properly?
Another possible reason why your Whirlpool fridge is not cooling but the freezer works could be a malfunctioning condenser fan. The condenser fan is responsible for circulating air over the condenser coils to dissipate heat from the refrigerator. If the condenser fan is not working properly or is not working at all, the refrigerator may not be able to cool effectively.
You can check if the condenser fan is working by opening the refrigerator and listening for the sound of the fan running. You should be able to hear a humming noise coming from the back of the fridge. If there is no sound, the fan may be malfunctioning.
Another way to check the condenser fan is to unplug the refrigerator and remove the back panel to access the fan. Inspect the fan for any visible signs of damage or obstruction. If the fan is not spinning freely, it may need to be replaced.
If you are not comfortable troubleshooting or repairing the condenser fan yourself, it is recommended to contact a professional appliance repair technician to diagnose and fix the issue. They will have the necessary tools and expertise to properly inspect and repair the fan.
Is the Evaporator Fan Motor Faulty?
One possible reason why your Whirlpool fridge is not cooling but the freezer works is a faulty evaporator fan motor. The evaporator fan motor is responsible for circulating air throughout the refrigerator to maintain a consistent temperature. If the motor is not working properly, cold air may not be able to reach the refrigerator compartment, leading to a warm fridge.
To determine if the evaporator fan motor is faulty, you can perform a simple test. Open the freezer compartment and listen for the sound of the fan running. If you don’t hear anything, it’s likely that the motor is not functioning. You can also visually inspect the fan by removing the freezer panel. Look for any signs of damage or debris that may be blocking the fan blades.
If you find that the evaporator fan motor is indeed faulty, it will need to be replaced. You can contact a professional appliance repair technician to diagnose and replace the motor for you. Alternatively, if you are comfortable with DIY repairs, you can purchase a replacement motor and install it yourself following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Keep in mind that a faulty evaporator fan motor is just one potential cause of your fridge not cooling. There could be other issues, such as a malfunctioning thermostat or a problem with the compressor. If you are unable to diagnose or fix the problem yourself, it’s best to seek professional assistance to ensure proper repair and avoid any further damage to your appliance.
Are the Coils Behind the Fridge Dirty?
One of the possible reasons why your Whirlpool fridge is not cooling but the freezer is working could be dirty coils located behind the fridge. Refrigerators rely on these coils to dissipate heat and regulate the temperature inside. Over time, dirt, dust, and pet hair can accumulate on the coils, preventing them from functioning efficiently.
To check if the coils behind your fridge are dirty, you will need to unplug the fridge and access the back panel. It is important to mention that you should prioritize safety and ensure that the fridge is completely disconnected from the power source before proceeding.
How to clean the coils:
1. Locate the back panel of the fridge and remove it. Depending on the model, you may need to use a screwdriver or simply pull it out.
2. Once the panel is removed, you should be able to see the condenser coils. These are usually located near the bottom of the fridge or along the back wall.
3. Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment or a coil cleaning brush to gently remove any accumulated dirt, dust, or debris from the coils. Be careful not to damage the fins of the coils while cleaning.
4. After cleaning the coils, you can also use a damp cloth to wipe away any remaining dirt or residue.
How often should you clean the coils?
It is recommended to clean the coils behind your Whirlpool fridge at least once or twice a year, depending on the amount of dust and dirt in your environment. However, if you have pets or live in a dusty area, you may need to clean the coils more frequently to ensure optimal cooling performance.
Remember, keeping the coils clean is essential for the efficient operation of your fridge. By regularly maintaining and cleaning the coils, you can help extend the lifespan of your Whirlpool refrigerator and avoid cooling issues in the future.
Is the Damper Control Assembly Malfunctioning?
The damper control assembly is responsible for allowing cold air from the freezer to circulate into the refrigerator compartment. If the damper control assembly is malfunctioning, it may not be opening properly or at all, causing the refrigerator to not cool properly.
To check if the damper control assembly is functioning correctly, start by inspecting it for any visible signs of damage or obstruction. Make sure that there are no ice or food debris blocking the damper. Clean the damper thoroughly if necessary.
If the damper control assembly appears to be in good condition and free of obstructions, you can perform a manual test to see if it’s opening and closing properly. To do this, locate the damper control assembly, usually located at the top of the refrigerator compartment. Gently push the damper door to see if it moves freely or if it’s stuck in one position.
If the damper control assembly is stuck or not moving freely, it may need to be replaced. In this case, it’s best to contact a professional technician or the manufacturer for further assistance. They will be able to diagnose the issue accurately and recommend the appropriate solution.
It’s important to address any issues with the damper control assembly promptly, as a malfunctioning damper can lead to a lack of proper airflow and temperature control in the refrigerator compartment, resulting in spoiled food and a less efficient cooling system.
Is the Refrigerator’s Compressor Running?
If your Whirlpool fridge is not cooling but the freezer works, one potential issue could be that the refrigerator’s compressor is not running properly. The compressor is a vital component of the refrigerator’s cooling system, as it is responsible for circulating refrigerant and generating the cooling effect.
To check if the compressor is running, you can listen for a humming sound coming from the back of the fridge. If the compressor is working properly, you should be able to hear a consistent, low-level hum. However, if there is no sound at all, it may indicate that the compressor is not receiving power or that it has malfunctioned.
If you suspect that the compressor is not running, you can try a few troubleshooting steps. First, make sure that the fridge is plugged in and the power outlet is functioning. You can also check the circuit breaker or fuse box to see if a tripped circuit is causing the issue.
If the fridge is properly powered, but the compressor is still not running, it might be a sign of a faulty compressor. In this case, it is recommended to contact a professional appliance repair service to diagnose and repair the issue. Attempting to fix a compressor issue without proper knowledge and tools can be dangerous and may cause further damage to the refrigerator.
It is also worth noting that there are other possible causes for a Whirlpool fridge not cooling, such as a malfunctioning thermostat, blocked vents, or a refrigerant leak. If you are unsure about the cause of the problem, it is advisable to consult a professional technician for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate repairs.
FAQ
Why is my Whirlpool fridge not cooling but the freezer works?
There could be several reasons why your Whirlpool fridge is not cooling but the freezer works. One possible reason is that the cooling fan in the fridge is not working properly, which can lead to a lack of cold air circulation. Another possible reason is a faulty defrost system, which can cause ice buildup and block the airflow. It is also possible that there is a problem with the thermostat, temperature control board, or compressor. If you are unsure about the cause, it is recommended to contact a professional technician for further diagnosis and repair.
What can I do if my Whirlpool fridge is not cooling but the freezer is working fine?
If your Whirlpool fridge is not cooling but the freezer is working fine, there are a few steps you can take to troubleshoot the issue. First, make sure that the temperature settings are correct and set to a cold enough temperature. Check if there is any obstruction blocking the air vents in the fridge. Clean the condenser coils, as dirty coils can restrict heat transfer and affect the cooling performance. If none of these steps solve the problem, it is recommended to contact a professional technician for further assistance.
What could be causing my Whirlpool refrigerator to not cool properly?
There are several potential causes for your Whirlpool refrigerator not cooling properly. One possibility is a malfunctioning condenser fan, which is responsible for cooling the compressor and dissipating heat. Another potential cause is a clogged or blocked air vent, which can restrict the airflow and lead to insufficient cooling. Additionally, a faulty thermostat, temperature control board, or compressor can also result in poor cooling performance. It is recommended to check these components and if necessary, seek professional help to diagnose and repair the issue.
